Crab Brunch Casserole Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant yet easy: Impress guests with minimal effort.
• Perfect for make-ahead: Prepare the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
• Flavor-packed: Combines creamy eggs, crab meat, cheese, and seasonings.
• Versatile: Great for brunch, holidays, or any special breakfast occasion.
• Protein-rich and satisfying: A hearty dish that feeds a crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
• Eggs
• Milk or half-and-half
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack)
• Green onions, sliced
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Bread cubes (day-old bread or brioche)
• Salt and pepper
• Old Bay seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
• Butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the base: Layer bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Add the crab and vegetables: Sprinkle crab meat, diced bell pepper, green onions, and parsley over the bread layer.
4. Mix the egg custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning until well combined.
5. Add cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheese into the egg mixture.
6. Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and crab layers, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
7. Top with remaining cheese: Sprinkle the rest of the cheese evenly on top.
8. Rest (optional): For best results, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight to let flavors meld.
9. Bake: Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
10. Cool slightly: Let sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour (plus optional chilling time)

Variations

• Spinach Crab Casserole: Add a cup of chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Crab and Shrimp Bake: Combine lump crab with cooked shrimp for a seafood medley.
• Cheesy Crab Bake: Mix different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for richer flavor.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit the bread and add extra crab and vegetables instead.
• Spicy Crab Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
• Mini Casseroles: Bake in individual ramekins for a classy brunch presentation.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze fully baked and cooled casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat:
  • Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 45–60 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?

Yes, imitation crab works fine, though the flavor will be slightly milder and less sweet.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.

Do I need to cook the crab before adding it?

No, pre-cooked crab meat is typically used. Just drain and check for any shell pieces.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack all melt beautifully and complement the crab flavor.

Can I make this recipe without bread?

Yes. For a crustless version, omit bread and reduce the milk slightly for a firmer texture.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

It’s ready when the center is set and the top is golden brown. Insert a knife—it should come out clean.

Can I use cream instead of milk?

Yes, using half-and-half or heavy cream makes the casserole richer and creamier.

What can I serve with crab brunch casserole?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, fruit salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete brunch.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Why did my casserole turn watery?

This can happen if the crab wasn’t well-drained or the casserole was underbaked. Let it rest after baking to set properly.

Conclusion

Crab Brunch Casserole Bake is a show-stopping dish that brings coastal luxury to your breakfast table. With its creamy eggs, tender crab, and golden cheese topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal perfect for holidays, brunch parties, or weekend indulgence. Make it ahead, bake it fresh, and enjoy every savory, seafood-filled bite.

Crab Brunch Casserole Bake

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Crab Brunch Casserole Bake is a luxurious, savory dish perfect for special brunches or weekend gatherings. With tender crab meat, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and herbs baked over a layer of bread, it’s a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s both elegant and easy to make ahead.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Brunch, Breakfast, Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
• 8 large eggs
• 1½ cups milk or half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack)
• 4 green onions, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread or brioche)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
• Butter, for greasing the baking dish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the base: Spread bread cubes evenly in the dish.
3. Add crab and vegetables: Layer crab meat, bell pepper, green onions, and parsley over the bread.
4. Mix the egg custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
5. Add cheese: Stir half of the shredded cheese into the egg mixture.
6. Assemble: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and crab layers, pressing gently to soak the bread.
7. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
8. Rest (optional): Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight.
9. Bake: Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
10. Cool and serve: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• For best flavor, use high-quality lump crab meat and drain well.
• Letting the casserole sit before baking allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
• Customize with different cheeses or add spinach for extra color and nutrients.
• Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for stress-free entertaining.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of casserole)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 245mg